Memory isn’t something that’s often discussed in conversations about mental health. However, our memories rely on complex mental processes. These have two-way relationships with emotions and mental health symptoms. 

Errors in memory encoding, consolidation and retrieval can impact our ability to recall information when we need it. This can be frustrating and lead to unfortunate consequences. At the same time, aspects of stress, anxiety and depression can all affect your memory.

You probably know that human memories aren’t perfect. We can be influenced by what’s happening when we form memories and by things that happen later on. A certain amount of variation is normal. 

Degenerative conditions like vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease can impact memory in older adults. While genetic predisposition plays a larger role in Alzheimer’s, vascular dementia is more often linked to cardiovascular risk factors. Understanding your risks and caring for your health can help you protect your memory as much as possible. Plenty of other patterns in your medical history and your life can contribute to poor memory, and some of them may be reversible.

In this article, we’ll talk about eight potential causes of memory loss, a few of which may come as a surprise to you. 

8 surprising causes of memory lapses

A 2023 meta-analysis on the causes of memory problems in older adults sheds some light on how these conditions can progress. Data synthesized from 100 studies showed that memory problems usually result from a combination of things. It also indicated that oxidative stress and inflammation are important underlying mechanisms.

The following are eight potential causes that can contribute to memory lapses:

• Chronic stress 

Chronic stress can affect several of the executive functions we use to store and recall memories. Over time, it can also lead to changes in the brain that affect memory. Atrophy in the hippocampus and disrupted neurotransmitter function are two examples of such brain changes.

• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) 

ADHD is a lifelong condition that can affect your memory at any age. Some aspects of memory, like working or short-term memory, can be improved with practice. People who have ADHD can find ways to improve or supplement their memory. Medication and working on executive functioning skills can help.

• Mental health conditions 

Many different mental health conditions can affect your memory in different ways when left untreated. Depression, anxiety and schizoaffective disorder are just a few examples. Managing your symptoms with psychotherapy, medication or both may help you improve your memory.

In particular, depression is linked to pseudodementia. This term is used to describe memory impairment related to mood disorders. This condition often improves with treatment of the underlying depression.

• Age-related brain changes 

Some age-related brain changes that affect memory are unrelated to neurodegenerative diseases. Hippocampal atrophy and reduced production of neurotransmitters like acetylcholine are more common results of aging that can play a role in memory loss. Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a common state between normal aging and dementia. There is memory loss but overall functioning is preserved.

• Lifestyle factors 

Physical inactivity, an unhealthy diet, social isolation and sleep problems are all lifestyle factors that can contribute to poor memory. They’re also risk factors for chronic and neurodegenerative conditions that can cause memory loss. Exercising, getting enough sleep and eating a balanced diet can help you keep your memory as strong as possible.

• Chronic health conditions 

Hypertension, diabetes and heart disease are all chronic medical conditions that can affect memory. Taking care of your health and working with your doctor to manage these conditions are critical ways to achieve the best outcomes.

• Other neurological conditions 

Neurological disorders besides age-related neurodegenerative conditions have been associated with memory impairment. These include Huntington’s disease, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and limbic encephalitis.

Improve your mental health and your memory at Lightfully

Memory lapses aren’t always cause for concern, and they can often be improved. Memory loss may be linked to everyday factors like stress and sleep problems that can be addressed with simple lifestyle changes. Understanding the underlying causes of your memory problems is the first step toward making these changes or finding appropriate treatment.

At Lightfully, we get to know each client as a person so we can provide personalized treatment that addresses all of your concerns, from anxiety and depression to memory issues. Our compassionate licensed clinicians look at the big picture of your mental health. They can help you take a proactive approach to stay sharp and achieve your wellness goals. 

Do you have questions about the connection between memory and mental health? Let’s talk about it. Contact us or reach out to our Admissions Concierge Team today.